Boston Radio Host Tony Massarotti Apologizes For Racially Insensitive On-Air Joke

Boston sports radio host Tony Massarotti made a racially insensitive joke on air about 2 Black males on Friday … and on Monday, he excused it, calling the remarks “insensitive” and “hurtful.”

Massarotti, a previous sportswriter for The Boston Herald and The Boston Globe, was on the mic for his “Felger & Mazz” reveal on 98.5 The Sports Hub when he asked his cohost, Michael Felger, who was doing the program from another location, about 2 Black people sitting behind him.

“I wanna know now who the two guys behind you are,” Massarotti asked Felger, who was doing the program from a New Orleans hotel, according to WCVB.

“They can’t hear us, right? Okay, so I would be careful if I were you. Because the last time you were around a couple of guys like that, they stole your car.”

Massarotti stated he was trying to “poke fun” at Felger — who apparently had his vehicle taken in New Orleans in the fall — however confesses his remarks “hurt the cause” for individuals who think in racial and social equality.

“Late in the show on Friday, I made some comments that angered and upset some people, and rightfully so,” Massarotti stated. “I wish I could take them back. I can’t.”

“So I owe everyone an apology. It’s not who I am. It’s not who we are. I can tell you that until I’m blue in the face — those of you who know me will believe it.”

Tony likewise stated his remarks came off as “ignorant” and he was regretful for that. He likewise asked forgiveness to his cohosts for dragging them into the debate.